U.S. Chargé Visits Orange Walk to Gain Insight into Sugar Industry Investment

The U.S. Embassy in Belize has highlighted a recent official visit to Orange Walk District by Chargé d’Affaires Rhonda Slusher, aimed at gaining firsthand insight into Belize’s sugar industry and major U.S. investments in the sector.  According to a post from the Embassy, Slusher toured the ASR–BSI sugar mill, where she observed operations linked to ASR’s U.S.$175 million investment, described as the largest U.S. investment in Belize. The Embassy noted that the investment plays a significant role in supporting the country’s sugar industry, which remains a key contributor to employment and economic activity in northern Belize. During the visit, the Chargé d’Affaires also toured the Sugar Industry Research Development Institute (SIRDI), including its laboratories and research facilities. There, she was briefed on ongoing research and innovation focused on improving sugar cane cultivation and productivity.  The visit also included informal engagement with the Orange Walk community, with the Embassy noting Slusher’s opportunity to experience local culture during her time in the district.  While the Embassy’s statement emphasized the scale and impact of U.S. investment in the sugar sector, the visit comes amid ongoing national discussions about the long-term sustainability of the industry, farmer earnings, and the balance between foreign investment and local interests.